I woke up angry

I am waking up from my winter hibernation

But there is more to this than just raging at the world, I promise. I've been having a fair few conversations recently about how January is not the time to be doing things.

Helen Calvert

posted something on her Instagram yesterday about how she was celebrating New Year this weekend.

I am waking up from my winter hibernation, hence the anger.

The thing that is angering me the most, currently, is I know so many people who are doing amazing things in the VCSE/3rd sector, but they're struggling.

Changes in funding, the NI increase and all manner of other things are squeezing the smaller charities etc in particular. But the issue with this is that these changes are likely to mean that they will need to support more people... They can't if they cease to exist!

They are having to grapple with a higher demand with more uncertainty and that can't be right. If you don't believe me, check out what Samantha Fisher had to say about this a few weeks ago. It's going to be devastating for a lot of charities like Trafford Domestic Abuse Services and more.

I read Sam Brown’s newsletter this morning and she talked about being transparent with pricing, and I intend to embrace that with open arms.

I know I can help the VCSE sector, but I also know that cash is their biggest concern. This is why I am putting out different products at different price points to help where I can.

My paid Substack is now available for just £5 per month, perfect if you want to get some of my wisdom* at a super low price.

I am in the process of developing a new website (I know, I binned the other one but a person can change their mind, right?), and on that, I will be transparent about my pricing.

Watch this space, because March is going to be when this all happens - because the fire in my belly is real 🔥

*I know, wisdom... Maverick attitude might be more appropriate!